Can Brazil’s No. 9 Martinelli Reshape Arsenal’s Attacking Strategy?

Despite his prowess as a left winger for Arsenal, Gabriel Martinelli might hold untapped potential as a center forward.

The Brazilian forward has seen limited action due to injuries at the start of the 2023–24 season.

With Gabriel Jesus sidelined, Mikel Arteta has experimented with options like Nketiah and Trossard, yet consistency remains a concern.

However, while Arteta has utilized Martinelli primarily as a left winger, recent developments within the Brazil national team suggest an alternative. Reports and footage from Brazil’s training sessions indicate coach Fernando Diniz’s intention to deploy Martinelli as a No. 9, playing up front in a 4-2-3-1 formation alongside Raphinha, Rodrigo, and Vinicius Junior.

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Football pundits have discussed Martinelli’s potential as a center forward. Last season, Arsenal legend Martin Keown voiced his belief that Martinelli’s natural position could be as a striker, emphasizing his instinctive goal-scoring ability.

Keown told BT Sport, I believe, strongly believe, that he’s a natural goalscorer.

“I would have thought the central position is his natural position. But from the left, we now get inside forwards.

“We saw this with [Mohamed] Salah and [Sadio] Mane, particularly when they played together as a pair, just tucking in, because Saka’s doing the same thing. So they get a bit more freedom.

“But put him in the middle, and he will score goals. I think he’s got everything in his game.”

Read also: Napoli Sacks Coach Garcia After Serie A Losses, Reinstates Mazzarri After 10 Years.

As Brazil readies to face Colombia and Argentina in the World Cup qualifier, Martinelli’s role as a No. 9 in Richarlison’s absence could provide a glimpse into his capabilities. It could present Arteta with an alternative striking option, potentially benefiting Brazil and Arsenal.

The question remains: Could Gabriel Martinelli’s transition to a central striking role be the solution to Arsenal’s forward line woes?

Please tell us what you think!

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